Acne is one of the most common skin disorders that may result in several types of blemishes. Some common types include whiteheads, pimples, and blackheads. There are several effective ways to prevent acne.
Dermatologists have highlighted four factors which contribute to the appearance of acne:
- skin producing excess oil, which clogs the pores
- the dead skin cells, which also has the same effect
- presence of bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes in the pores
- inflammation of skin, which leads to redness
A dermatologist may help to identify the factor or combination of factors that cause acne. However, various methods of treatment are similar, irrespective of the cause. The following tips could help protect from acne and also reduce the number of breakout.
1. Wash the face twice daily
Acne is the result of a dirty face, opposite to popular belief. But, it is vital to remove excessive dirt and oil from skin by washing properly. Most of the people prefer using a mild cleanser and slightly warm water. Applying oil-free moisturizer after washing could keep your skin from becoming very dry. Over-washing your face could make the skin dry, which in turn can aggravate pimples.
2. Avoid harsh scrubbing
Few people scrub their skin with rough cloth or washcloth. This could irritate skin and cause inflammation, making the acne breakouts worse. Using a gentle cleanser with clean hand or soft brush for use on the face could help prevent pimples.
3. Keep hair clean
If excess oil in hair travels to skin, it can worsen your acne. Regularly washing your hair could stop acne from appearing, mainly close to hairline. Also, avoid using products like hair gel or spray on your face. These products can clog the pores and lead to severe breakouts.
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4. Refrain from picking at pimples
It might be tempting to press a pimple, but it usually results in inflammation and scarring. For reducing the appearance of blemishes, always use topical treatment. These might take some time to show result, but they can prevent new pimples from appearing.
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5. Apply topical treatments
Over-the-counter medications, such as serums and creams, can reduce the breakouts, especially when they occur in certain areas.
The following problem areas are very common:
- the nose
- the chin
- forehead
The treatments available for buying online might contain salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide. These available products are not so potent like prescription-strength treatments, but these can help prevent mild acne and also reduce breakouts.
6. Use topical retinoids
Topical retinoids are common products having medicines derived from vitamin A, and mostly dermatologists prescribe these to manage and treat acne. These treatments could get rid of more dead skin cells so also reduce inflammation.
Most of the topical retinoids are available by prescription drugs like tretinoin and tazarotene.
But, the retinoid medication, adapalene or Differin, could be bought online or over the counter.
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7. Consult a dermatologist about the use of antibiotics
Topical antibiotics may fight the excess growth of P. acne bacteria in skin. Examples of antibiotics that treat inflammatory acne are clindamycin and erythromycin, which are easily available by prescriptions.
People could identify inflammatory acne due to its red, irritated skin appearance. It may also be painful.
8. Consult the doctor about hormone pill
Birth control pill may help prevent acne by regulating the hormones which may make acne severe. But, these pills also carry risks, therefore it is important to review the benefits and the side effects before using it. Spironolactone, a popular medication used to treat high blood pressure, might help in the cases of severe acne. However, the spironolactone may have many side effects, so it is suggested to speak to your doctor.
9. Avoid foods linked to acne
Doctors are the connection between food and acne. However, a growing body of study has suggested that certain foods might trigger acne in some patients.
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According to American Academy Dermatology, foods with high glycemic index might increase the risk of acne or even make it worse.
These problematic foods are sugar and high in carbs. Some examples are:
- cookies
- pies
- cakes
Dairy products like skim milk might increase the risk of developing acne. A person might want to limit intake of certain food group, to notice if the skin improves.
10. Use sunscreen while going outdoors
Excess exposure to sun may damage the skin. Sunburn could lead to an excess production of oil that can make acne worse.
Use of oil-free sunscreen with protection factor of 15 can help prevent sunburn and exacerbated acne.
11. Apply apple cider vinegar
It is prepared either by fermenting apple cider or from unfiltered juice extracted from pressed apple. Like other vinegar, it is known for its power to fight different types of fungi and bacteria. Apple cider vinegar also contains organic acid, like citric acid that can kill P. acnes. Research has revealed that succinic acid suppresses the inflammation caused by P. acnes, which may also prevent scarring.
Cleaning skin regularly, selecting skincare products selectively and avoiding contact with the oil could help reduce acne.
If none of the above methods show improvement, consult a dermatologist for further treatment.